According to the brand, just like the series, the well-attended viewing event delivered thought-provoking conversations through a panel discussion.

The brand says the Black Conversations series was conceptualised as a component to drive the Castle Milk Stout brand's 'Don't Fear Black; Savour it' campaign.

The campaign was based on insights that indicate that beer drinkers do not trial 'Inkunzi’emnyama' (black bull) as the beer is affectionately known to its endearing drinkers — this is due to the liquid's dark, black colour.

The panel discussion consisted of:
  • brand manager Khensani Mkhombo
  • creative leads at Joe Public United Tshepo Mogorosi and Xolisa Dyeshana, and
  • executive producer at Passion-Lane Musa Khumalo.

The brand adds that it is a purpose-driven brand, strongly rooted in the celebration of Africans. This perception held by consumers, indicated a large subject, affecting society that needed to be addressed — the negative affiliation associated with 'black' not just as a colour but as a concept, an attitude and an identity.

Through the 'Don't Fear Black, Savour It' campaign, the brand seeks to unpack blackness positively and in response to embracing blackness, Castle Milk Stout, through this series, seeks to open a platform to discuss blackness openly and authentically.

Khensani Mkhombo, brand manager at Castle Milk Stout, says, "As a brand, we are invested in providing positive dialogues for all South Africans to engage on issues, which impact us as Africans. We are confident that all the episodes will evoke stimulating discussions that will contribute to fostering a society that allows Africans to de-mystify misconceptions about blackness."

Mkhombo adds, "The first episode, for instance, delves deeper into the concept of cancel culture and the negative connotations attributed to Black Twitter."

"We are looking forward to engaging all South Africans on the addressed topics, and are welcoming to the differing opinions that are shared by the cast, viewers and anyone else who has wanted to discuss these topics, with the utmost respect and without the fear of being misrepresented or unfairly judged," concludes Mkhombo.

The viewing session gave a glimpse into the first episode titled Black Twitter, in this episode, the outspoken panel unpacked cancel culture and the ripple effect it has on those that have been 'cancelled'.

Castle Milk Stout says that it believes that the selection of a diverse cast featuring prominent personalities, will bring attention to societal issues that are often left unsaid; with dire consequences.

Produced by Passion Lane Productions in partnership with Joe Public United. The four-part series features dynamic and diverse personalities such as:
  • Musa Mseleku
  • Celeste Ntuli
  • Phil Mphela
  • Ayabonga Cawe
  • Mthokozisi 'MaBlerh' Cele
  • Rhodé Marshall
  • Felix Hlophe
  • Gogo Skhotheni
  • Lesego Tlhabi
  • Aubrey Masango
  • Refilwe Modiselle
  • Penuel Mlotshwa
  • Felix Hlophe
  • Musa Mseleku, and
  • Thembisa Mdoda-Nxumalo.
For more information, visit www.castlemilkstout.co.za. You can also follow Castle Milk Stout on Facebook, Twitter or on Instagram.